Recently we decided to take part in a local farm's CSA programs. It is community supported agriculture. Basically we pay an up front amount for what share we want and for 22 weeks we get a box full of fresh produce and/or meat every week. It is a great way to support local farmers and a great way to be sure you know what is in the food you are eating. A regular share is enough to feed a small family their basic vegetable needs works out to be about $35 a week.
*CSA members participate in their own food supply by committing to share in the harvest of a local farm. Members purchase shares in the spring, and each week receive seasonal vegetables: a subscription to the farm’s weekly harvest. A CSA creates a unique relationship between the consumer and the producer – nowadays, not only do many people not know what country or what state their food comes from, they certainly don’t know the farmer who picked the tomatoes they are eating. By joining a CSA you express your support for locally grown food, for clean food, and for the farmers that grow it. CSA may not replace patronizing a farmers market. It does guarantee your access to the best of each week’s harvest. This is a way to be a part of something positive for you and your community. *info from elmwoodstockfarm.com
Important factors for our family when choosing who to do a CSA with:
-they are good to the animals and let them graze and roam free at all times.
-they are good to the earth
-they don't use harsh chemicals on crops
-they don't use hormones or antibiotics in their meats.
We chose to do a CSA with Elmwood Stock Farm. As a CSA member one of their benefits is a farm tour. We went on the farm tour on Mother's Day and had so much fun. Here are a few pictures:
Know your local farmer and know what your eating.
Some good links to get you started:
